Groundbreaking Study from WHO Unveils Maternal Health Crisis

A groundbreaking study from the World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled the harrowing truth about maternal health: severe complications during pregnancy, such as hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders, are responsible for a staggering number of maternal fatalities worldwide.

Key Findings from the 2020 Report

In 2020 alone, approximately 80,000 deaths were attributed to hemorrhaging and another 50,000 to hypertensive disorders, including the life-threatening condition known as preeclampsia.

This disturbing data highlights the alarming reality that countless women still lack access to essential healthcare and lifesaving treatments during and after childbirth.

The Relationship Between Maternal Mortality and Healthcare Access

As the first global update on maternal deaths since the adoption of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, the WHO's report paints a more comprehensive picture by revealing that nearly 23% of pregnancy-related deaths are linked to untreated or undiagnosed chronic and infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and diabetes.

Expert Insights on Maternal Health

Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health at WHO, stressed the importance of understanding the alarming causes of maternal deaths. “This is not just about individual occurrences; it’s a global equity issue that calls for high-quality, evidence-based care for women before, during, and after delivery,” she stated.

Understanding the Scale of Maternal Deaths

The total number of maternal deaths in 2020 reached an estimated 287,000, equating to one death every two minutes. The study reveals that hemorrhage alone accounts for 27% of these deaths, while preeclampsia contributes an additional 16%.

This condition brings with it dangerous risks, including stroke, organ failure, and seizures if not treated promptly.

Direct Causes of Maternal Mortality

Other direct causes of maternal mortality cited in the report include sepsis, infections, pulmonary embolism, and complications arising from abortions—both spontaneous and induced.

Alarmingly, many maternal deaths occur in the critical period surrounding childbirth, emphasizing the need for timely care.

Inequities in Postnatal Care

However, about one-third of women, predominantly in low-income countries, do not benefit from essential postnatal checks shortly after giving birth.

Advocacy for Enhanced Maternity Care Services

To combat these trends, WHO advocates for enhanced maternity care services that can proactively detect risks early in pregnancy and manage emergencies effectively.

Preventative healthcare strategies addressing noncommunicable diseases and malnutrition may also significantly reduce the risks facing pregnant women.

Interconnected Health Issues

Dr. Jenny Cresswell, a scientist at WHO and co-author of the report, highlighted the interconnected nature of health issues. She noted, "Multiple interrelated factors contribute to maternal mortality—conditions like preeclampsia can increase the likelihood of hemorrhage and other complications long after birth."

A Holistic Approach to Maternal Health

The WHO study’s findings indicate a pressing need for a holistic approach to maternal health. Such an approach has proven effective in allowing women to enjoy healthier pregnancies and better quality of life post-delivery.

Addressing Data Gaps and Barriers in Postpartum Care

Moreover, the report emphasizes the glaring data gaps, particularly regarding maternal suicide, which is reported in only 12 countries.

Many countries also fail to track late maternal deaths, which can arise from conditions persisting beyond childbirth.

Commitment to Improved Maternal Care

To address these challenges, WHO is dedicated to enhancing access to high-quality maternity services.

In 2024, the organization, along with partners, initiated a global Roadmap for Postpartum Hemorrhage, prioritizing strategies to combat this leading cause of maternal death.

Furthermore, the World Health Assembly, comprising 194 member countries, has committed to strengthening care quality for women before, during, and after childbirth.

Looking Ahead: World Health Day 2025

Looking ahead, World Health Day 2025 is set to spotlight maternal and newborn health as it approaches five years from the goal for the Sustainable Development Goals.

This campaign will drive efforts to ensure that women and babies, especially in impoverished and crisis-affected regions, receive the high-quality healthcare they urgently need.

Call to Action for Global Community

With these important findings and initiatives, the global community must act now to safeguard the health and well-being of mothers everywhere, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.